A Lavender Field, A Pause From the Storm

This summer, I found myself standing in the lavender fields once again, a tradition that has been part of my life for the past seven years. Every season I return, camera in hand, ready to capture its beauty and create timeless memories. But this year was different.

After the devastating loss of my home due to flooding, life has felt heavy, uncertain, and overwhelming. Photography has always been my escape, my way of holding on to fleeting moments, and this lavender session—this private moment with my children—was more than just a photoshoot. It was a much-needed breath, a rare day of freedom from all the worries that surround us. For a few hours, it was simply laughter, hugs, and the sound of little feet running among the rows.

But even the lavender seemed to carry the weight of my story. In all these years, never once have I seen the fields bloom so weakly. Three years ago, we had a summer just as dry as this one, yet the lavender was tall, vibrant, and full of life. This year, it was different—shy, withdrawn, almost as if it mirrored my own heart. Hidden from the world, closed off, focused only on surviving the storm. Somehow, it felt like the lavender and I were walking through this struggle together.

And yet, in the quiet beauty of that imperfect field, there was still something magical. There was still connection, still love, still the promise of tomorrow. The photos we captured that day will forever remind me that even in difficult times, joy can still be found in the smallest, simplest moments.

I am deeply grateful to every family who trusted me during this challenging season, booking sessions with me in my temporary locations while I rebuild what was lost. Your support has meant more than I can ever put into words. Photography is not just my work—it is my way of healing, of creating, of moving forward.

The lavender may not have bloomed as brightly this year, but just like me, it will rise again. Stronger, fuller, ready to share its beauty once more. And I hold on to that hope with all my heart.